Are you wondering what the path to working in real estate looks like in Washington state? As in all states, working in real estate requires obtaining a license. The requirements, however, vary from one state to the next. So, just how difficult is it to get licensed in the state of Washington? Read on to find out.
Key Takeaways
- To start a real estate career in Washington, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED.
- Completing 90 hours of approved real estate education is mandatory. It is crucial to choose a reputable school with state approval, positive reviews, and comprehensive support resources.
- The Washington State real estate exam consists of national and state-specific sections. Adequate preparation using quality coursework, test prep materials, and practice tools like flashcards is essential for passing the exam.
- New real estate professionals need to find an experienced broker to oversee their work. Selecting a brokerage that offers strong mentorship, training programs, and a supportive company culture is vital for a successful career start.
The Path to Working in Real Estate in WA
The real estate market in the Evergreen State is undoubtedly exciting. With its bustling tech hubs and the picturesque beauty of the Pacific Northwest, it’s no wonder people are excited to buy property there. This also means the competition as a licensed real estate professional can be fierce. If you want to succeed, you must set yourself up for success. Here’s how:
1. Meet eligibility requirements
To get started in real estate, you’ll first need to meet a few basic eligibility requirements. In Washington, you must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma or a GED.
2. Choose the right school & complete your education requirements
You must complete 90 hours of approved real estate education courses in Washington. These can be taken from an approved real estate school in person or online. Choosing the right school is critical to succeeding in this step and beyond. Think about it this way: choosing the right school isn’t as simple as choosing the cheapest option. You want something that offers both value and quality. Here are some tips to consider when selecting your real estate school:
- Ensure your state’s licensing department approves the school.
- Read verified customer reviews.
- Ask for advice from agents in your area.
- Choose a school that offers test prep materials or courses.
- Find a school that provides flexible learning options.
- Verify that the school offers instructor support.
Make sure your chosen school offers other resources essential to supporting your career, like continuing education opportunities. Picking the right real estate school will only help to set the foundations of success for the rest of your career.
3. Pass the Washington State real estate exam
The next step toward getting your license is passing the state’s real estate exam. The exam is divided into two parts: the national portion, which covers general real estate principles and practices, and the state portion, which focuses on state-specific real estate laws and regulations.
Don’t forget to skip out on exam prep, either. While it will take focus and determination, preparation is the key to success. Here are some tips to help you pass:
- Remember that you can take the exam as many times as necessary.
- Quality pre-license coursework and test prep material will help you pass the exam the first time you take it.
- Use flashcards to help you memorize real estate vocabulary, terms, and mathematical formulas.
- Look for schools that offer pass-or-don’t-pay guarantees, which prove they are confident in their ability to help you pass the test.
4. Find the right brokerage
All beginner real estate professionals must have someone with more experience oversee their work. Finding the right sponsoring broker is another critical step to success. They can provide mentorship, resources, and support.
Talk with several brokerages in your area before signing with one. Ask questions about commission splits, training programs, and even company culture to ensure you choose one that aligns with your goals. Talk to others in the field to get a feel for different brokerages’ reputations in the area.
Is the WA Real Estate Exam Difficult?
The state of Washington requires a score of at least 70% to pass. While you’ll need to prepare for the exam to succeed, remember this: all licensed real estate professionals across the state have been able to complete the exam, and so can you!
Rockwell Institute can help you take the first step in getting your Washington real estate license. Our school has been the leading choice for more than 150,000 aspiring real estate brokers. In fact, we have the highest real estate exam pass rate in the state. So, if you’re ready to embark on an exciting, rewarding real estate career, start the licensing process today by signing up for our courses!
